Sea Eagles down Raiders

Dean Whare of the Sea Eagles scores a try during the round nine NRL match between the Manly Sea Eagles and the Canberra Raiders at Brookvale OvalCameron Spencer - Getty Images

A FINE defensive effort from Manly full-back Brett Stewart helped the Sea Eagles to an 18-12 victory over Canberra at Brookvale Oval on Sunday.

The former Kangaroos custodian won a points decision over one of his rivals for the New South Wales State of Origin spot, Josh Dugan, and repelled several attacking raids to deny Canberra with try-saving tackles on Shaun Fensom, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs and Blake Ferguson.

Sea Eagles skipper Jamie Lyon told Grandstand his side never expected to walk over the desperate Raiders outfit which has returned just three wins through nine rounds.

"We knew they were going to come out strong," he said.

"They've been under a bit of pressure so we knew it was always going to be the case.